The numbers and letters on an oil bottle (0W-20, 5W-30...) look technical, but the idea is simple once explained. Here's how to make sense of it without becoming a mechanic.
What do these numbers mean (0W-20, 5W-30, etc.)?
The first number (before the "W", for Winter) indicates how fluid the oil stays in cold weather — the lower the number, the better it flows in extreme cold, which matters in Quebec. The second number indicates the oil's thickness once the engine is warm. Together, these form the "viscosity" recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.
The most important rule: follow the manufacturer's recommendation
Every vehicle is designed for a specific oil grade, listed in the owner's manual (often also on the oil cap under the hood). Using the wrong viscosity can reduce engine protection, even if the oil is otherwise good quality.
Synthetic, semi-synthetic, or conventional?
- Synthetic — best protection, lasts longer between changes, handles extreme temperatures better. Recommended for most newer vehicles.
- Semi-synthetic — a compromise between performance and price.
- Conventional — the most affordable, but breaks down faster, especially in severe driving (short trips, traffic, extreme cold).
What if my vehicle is older or has high mileage?
Some manufacturers recommend a specific "high mileage" oil for vehicles over 100,000-150,000 km, formulated to reduce leaks and wear on older engines.
We always use the grade recommended for your specific vehicle — never a random generic oil.
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